North Island, New Zealand

In a land where dramatic coastlines meet ancient forests, New Zealand's North Island presents some of golf's most spectacular modern masterpieces. Here, where the Pacific Ocean meets rolling farmland and volcanic landscapes, an extraordinary collection of world-ranked courses offers experiences that rival the world's finest golf destinations. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, as travelers move between luxury lodges and resorts, each offering a distinct perspective on New Zealand's diverse landscape and culture.

Kauri Cliffs takes players on an unforgettable journey through what feels like four different continents in a single round. Fifteen holes offer dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean, while others wind through native forest and rolling farmland where sheep graze peacefully nearby. The course's variety and stunning beauty have earned it recognition among the world's elite venues.

Te Arai Links, the country's newest golf destination, presents two outstanding courses that draw favorable comparisons to Oregon's famous Bandon Dunes. Both the North and South courses take full advantage of their rolling coastal terrain, offering spectacular views of mysterious offshore islands and the pristine Northland coastline.

At Cape Kidnappers, the golf experience reaches epic proportions. Holes perch dramatically on fingers of cliff 500 feet above the Pacific Ocean, creating one of golf's most photographed venues. Each hole seems to outdo the last in drama and beauty, while the course's strategic demands match its spectacular setting.

The Kinloch Club, Jack Nicklaus's only New Zealand design, presents what locals consider the country's sternest test. Every shot must be precisely executed to avoid the punishing fescue rough, while the dramatic terrain creates visual challenges that test both skill and nerve. Titirangi, designed by the legendary Alister MacKenzie, provides a different challenge, winding through a jungle of native ferns and palms where a hidden creek influences play on the closing holes.

Destination Experiences: Culture & Leisure

New Zealand's North Island offers an extraordinary range of experiences beyond golf. In Auckland, known as the City of Sails, visitors can explore a vibrant harbor city where world-class restaurants and wine bars sit alongside traditional Māori cultural experiences. The city's Sky Tower offers panoramic views of the harbor dotted with sailing vessels.

Rotorua presents an otherworldly landscape of geothermal activity, where geysers erupt and thermal pools steam amidst native forests. Here, visitors can experience authentic Māori culture, including traditional hangi feasts and powerful haka performances. In Hawke's Bay, renowned wineries offer tastings of world-class vintages, while the art deco architecture of Napier tells the story of the city's rebirth following a 1931 earthquake.

The luxury lodges at Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers provide havens of sophisticated comfort, offering five-course meals paired with New Zealand's finest wines. These properties combine world-class hospitality with spectacular natural settings.

Practical Information

Location & Access:

• Auckland Airport (AKL) serves as the primary gateway with international connections

• Journey-based experience with stays at multiple luxury lodges

• Each property serves as a base for exploring different regions of the North Island

Best Time to Visit:

• Year-round golf with mild temperatures

• December to February (Southern Hemisphere summer) offers longest daylight hours

• Spring and autumn provide spectacular playing conditions with fewer travelers

Planning Your Visit

Whether you're planning a dedicated golf retreat or combining play with New Zealand's cultural attractions, our team specializes in crafting bespoke itineraries that maximize your experience. Contact us to discuss preferred tee times, accommodation options, and supplementary activities that will make your New Zealand golf journey truly memorable.